NASCAR changed, not driver commitments

“Today, everyone is into their computers. You have to be able to change and adjust as the technology changes. To me, that’s the biggest change.”

Which is what makes the 54-year-old Martin a class of one.

The 37-year-old Johnson entered the Sprint Cup 12 years ago about the same time advanced technology started coming into the sport. He is parts old-school driver and new-era computer geek. Martin entered the decade before computers.

“Mark is amazing,” said Johnson. “He crossed eras without missing a beat. But he was also a pioneer. He introduced the sport and drivers to the physical training programs that are everywhere today.”

This is the sixth anniversary of the Jimmie Johnson Foundation’s work in San Diego’s East County. After funding four Habitat for Humanity Homes, Johnson teamed with sponsor Lowe’s Toolbox for Education Champions Grants. Johnson’s foundation has donated more than $2.2 million in San Diego County with $1.34 million of the amount benefitting schools in the county.